Authors: Rob Patterson, Nate Graham
Mentors: Sally Rocks
Insitution: Utah Valley University
The pervasive use of pesticides in agricultural practices has raised environmental concerns due to their potential to contaminate water bodies and affect aquatic ecosystems. This study focuses on the identification and quantification of three common pesticides—atrazine, 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), and dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) in Utah Lake.. Utilizing advanced chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques, including Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), we aim to detect the presence and determine the concentration levels of these substances. Water samples were collected from multiple points around the lake to assess the spatial distribution of the pesticides. The method development involves optimization of sample preparation procedures, including solid-phase extraction (SPE) and cleanup, to increase the detection sensitivity and accuracy. This project enhances environmental monitoring and has implications for water quality management, regulatory compliance, and public health in the region. The anticipated results will contribute to a better understanding of pesticide pollution patterns and will aid in formulating strategies to mitigate the contamination of aquatic environments.